Tunisian authorities have seized 4.7 tons of expired chicken and derivatives in the city of Mahdia. The seizure was made by joint monitoring services on Wednesday, September 23, during a control operation targeting a company active in the production, slaughtering, and marketing of poultry products in the region. The operation was carried out in the presence of the Mahdia Governor, Anis Al-Adhari, and several officials from the Regional Trade Administration, the Regional Office of the National Health Safety Authority for Food Products, and the National Guard.
The economic monitoring operation revealed several irregularities, including the failure to carry out periodic checks on weighing machines, as well as monitoring commercial transactions and purchase and sale operations within the company. The National Health Safety Authority for Food Products also observed several irregularities related to the expiration of the products' shelf life, the absence of labeling, and the failure to specify production and expiration dates.
The products were also stored in unsanitary conditions, and there was no continuous monitoring of the products. The authorities have drawn up search reports for the recorded irregularities and seized unsafe products. The National Health Safety Authority for Food Products will complete the necessary legal procedures to destroy the seized products.
The operation was carried out in accordance with the Tunisian authorities' efforts to ensure food safety and protect consumers. The Mahdia Governorate has not provided further details on the company or the products seized. However, the authorities have emphasized their commitment to taking all necessary measures to prevent the circulation of unsafe food products.
The Tunisian authorities have been cracking down on food safety irregularities in recent years. In 2020, the government launched a national strategy to improve food safety and reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses. The strategy includes measures to strengthen monitoring and control of food production, processing, and distribution.
The seizure of expired chicken and derivatives in Mahdia is a significant example of the authorities' efforts to enforce food safety regulations. The products seized were likely to be sold on the black market or in informal markets, where they could have posed a risk to consumers.
The authorities have urged consumers to be vigilant and report any suspicious food products to the relevant authorities. They have also emphasized their commitment to working with food producers and distributors to ensure that products meet safety standards.
Key points
- The Tunisian authorities seized 4.7 tons of expired chicken and derivatives in Mahdia on September 23.
- The products were stored in unsanitary conditions and lacked proper labeling.
- The authorities have drawn up search reports and will destroy the seized products.
